Highlight • Monument
Blue Whale of Catoosa
Cycling
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The Blue Whale of Catoosa is an iconic and whimsical man-made monument situated just east of Catoosa, Oklahoma, directly on Historic Route 66. This beloved roadside attraction, standing at an elevation of approximately 150 meters, is a massive concrete and iron whale, instantly recognizable by its bright blue body and wide grin. It serves as a charming landmark in Rogers County, Oklahoma, drawing travelers from around the globe to this historic stretch of highway.
Visitors consistently rave about the unique charm and nostalgic appeal of the Blue Whale. Its playful design and the opportunity to explore inside the whale itself create memorable photo opportunities and a sense of childlike wonder. Many appreciate its family-friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect stop for those traveling with children or anyone looking for a delightful break from the road. It embodies the spirit of classic Americana and the quirky attractions that define Route 66.
Before visiting this unique landmark, travelers should know that it's a free attraction, open to the public year-round. Located at 2600 US Route 66, Catoosa, OK, it's easily accessible and offers ample parking. While swimming is no longer permitted in the adjacent pond, the area provides picnic tables and restroom facilities, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stop. The site is well-maintained, thanks to dedicated community efforts, ensuring a pleasant experience for all.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa can be enjoyed at any time of year, though pleasant weather enhances the experience of exploring the grounds and picnicking. It's a popular spot for travelers to stretch their legs, take photos, and soak in the history of Route 66. Future plans for the site include a new visitor's center, a whale pod playground, and an expanded walking trail, promising even more activities for visitors in the coming years.
The monument's rich history adds to its allure; it was originally built by Hugh S. Davis as a surprise anniversary gift for his wife, Zelta, and quickly evolved into a popular public swimming hole. Hikers and travelers on komoot often share stories of its past as a vibrant community spot, complete with lifeguards and even a small zoo. Today, visitors can still walk through the whale's mouth, explore its belly, and climb to the tip of its tail, experiencing a piece of living history.
For those looking to explore the area further, the Blue Whale serves as an excellent starting point for discovering other attractions near Blue Whale of Catoosa along Historic Route 66. Whether you're planning a road trip or just a day out, komoot offers a variety of routes for cycling, driving, and walking that can help you discover nearby landmarks and natural features in the Catoosa and greater Tulsa area.
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April 21, 2020
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Elevation 150 m
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the operating hours and is there an admission fee for the Blue Whale of Catoosa?
The Blue Whale of Catoosa is a free attraction and is generally accessible to the public year-round, from dawn until dusk. There are no specific operating hours or admission fees, allowing visitors to enjoy the site at their convenience.
Is the Blue Whale of Catoosa accessible for visitors with mobility challenges or wheelchairs?
The area around the Blue Whale is generally flat and paved, making it accessible for most visitors. You can easily approach the whale and walk around the grounds. While you can walk through the whale's mouth and explore its belly, some internal areas or climbing to the tail might be more challenging for those with mobility issues.
Can I bring my dog to the Blue Whale of Catoosa?
Yes, the Blue Whale of Catoosa is a dog-friendly attraction. Leashed dogs are welcome to explore the grounds with their owners. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the area enjoyable for everyone.
How long does a typical visit to the Blue Whale of Catoosa take?
Most visitors spend between 30 minutes to an hour at the Blue Whale of Catoosa. This allows enough time to walk through the whale, take photos, enjoy a picnic, and explore the immediate surroundings. If you plan to fish or simply relax, you might stay longer.
Are there any specific trails or routes for hiking or cycling directly at the Blue Whale of Catoosa?
While the Blue Whale itself is a roadside attraction and not a traditional trail destination, future plans for 2025-2026 include a new walking trail around the site. Currently, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the pond and the whale. For longer routes, the Blue Whale serves as an excellent starting point for exploring other attractions along Historic Route 66, with various cycling and driving routes available in the wider Catoosa and Tulsa area.
What facilities are available at the Blue Whale of Catoosa, such as restrooms or picnic areas?
The site offers several amenities for visitors, including picnic tables for enjoying a meal outdoors and restroom facilities. These are maintained by the City of Catoosa to ensure a comfortable visit.
What is the history behind the Blue Whale of Catoosa?
The Blue Whale was built between 1970 and 1972 by Hugh S. Davis as a surprise 34th wedding anniversary gift for his wife, Zelta, who collected whale figurines. It quickly became a popular public swimming hole known as "Nature's Acres," complete with lifeguards and even a small zoo. After closing in 1988 and falling into disrepair, dedicated volunteers and the community restored it, and it is now owned and operated by the City of Catoosa.
What other attractions or landmarks are near the Blue Whale of Catoosa?
The Blue Whale is a quintessential stop on Historic Route 66, which itself offers numerous other unique roadside attractions and towns to explore. Nearby, you can find other Route 66 landmarks, and the city of Tulsa is just about 14 miles southwest, offering museums, parks, and dining options.
Is swimming allowed in the pond next to the Blue Whale?
No, swimming is no longer permitted in the pond adjacent to the Blue Whale. While it was originally a popular swimming hole, it is now primarily for viewing and fishing. Visitors can still enjoy picnicking and feeding the resident turtles.
How crowded does the Blue Whale of Catoosa get, especially on weekends or holidays?
As a popular Route 66 attraction, the Blue Whale can draw a significant number of visitors, especially on weekends, holidays, and during peak travel seasons. While there's ample space to walk around, you might find more people present during these times. For a quieter experience, consider visiting on a weekday or earlier in the morning.
Are there any plans for future developments or renovations at the Blue Whale of Catoosa?
Yes, there are exciting plans for future developments! Renovations are projected for 2025-2026 and include a new visitor's center, updated bathrooms, a whale pod playground, a new whale tail sculpture, a new neon sign, a walking trail, a fire pit, and an expanded parking area, promising an even richer experience for future visitors.